VATICAN - Benedict XVI makes appeal for Indonesia and Benin

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – At the close of the General Audience held on Wednesday, October 27, the Holy Father Benedict XVI expressed his closeness to the populations of Indonesia and Benin, struck by natural disasters. He also made an appeal to the international community, asking them to provide help and comfort to them. These were the Pope's words: “In recent hours, another terrible tsunami has struck the coasts of Indonesia, which was also hit by a volcanic eruption, causing numerous dead and dispersed. To the families of the victims I express my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of their dear ones and to all the Indonesian population I assure my closeness and my prayer. I am, moreover, close to the dear population of Benin, struck by continuous floods, which have left many people homeless and in precarious health situations. Upon the victims and upon the entire nation I invoke the blessing and comfort of the Lord. I appeal to the international community to provide the necessary aid to alleviate the afflictions of all those who suffer because of these devastations. (SL) (Agenzia Fides 28/10/2010)